With storm Bram set to hit parts of the UK, Will Pringle at Smith Bros, the UK’s leading provider of pre-owned trucks and lorries, shares the importance of overtaking vehicles with caution and making necessary checks before heading on your journey.
Will says: “Heavy rain can bring reduced visibility for drivers on the road as spray from other vehicles and cloudy conditions can limit what you can see.
“Rain on the road can also reduce tire grip, making the braking distance much longer. Driving at high speeds in these conditions can cause tires to lose contact with the road. And, with slippery surfaces, it can lead to a loss of control.”
Will goes on to share his top tips for a safe journey in bad conditions:
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Overtake trucks and lorries with caution
It can be tempting to overtake lorries and trucks to get ahead. However, it’s important to take care when overtaking heavier vehicles to ensure safety, especially when there’s poor conditions.
When driving around HGVs, remember they have larger blind spots than cars. If you can’t see the driver’s mirrors, they probably can’t see you either. In a storm, this is only heightened as they have even more reduced visibility due to spray from heavy rain.
If you must overtake, make sure to slow down and increase the distance to give you plenty of space to complete the manoeuvre safely. After passing, don’t cut in too quickly because HGVs need more time to stop. Always give extra space, especially when they’re turning a corner or in poor weather conditions
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Don’t make this mistake when stuck in a traffic jam
If you’re stuck in congestion during bad weather, Will shares the importance of saving fuel.
When caught in the middle of a traffic jam, avoid idling as this can consume around 0.8 litres of fuel per hour. The constant acceleration and braking that drivers usually do in stop-and-go traffic increases consumption by nearly 90% on motorways.
Will recommends switching off the engine in stand-stills that last longer than 2 minutes. When it’s time to restart and get moving, avoid jerking by taking your time for a steady start.
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Check your vehicle is fit to drive
Bad weather can bring with it longer journeys due to reduced speeds and congestion. Avoid further delays and breakdowns by performing a simple checklist before setting off:
- Ensure window wipers are functioning correctly and top up the screenwash
- Perform quick checks on all tyres to ensure they’re inflated correctly and have adequate tread depth
- Test that all of the lights are working properly
- Refuel before you start your journey to avoid high fuel costs at service stations
- Check AdBlue, brake fluid, engine oil levels.
Performing these quick checks will help to minimise the chances of complications and breakdowns during the storm.
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Download traffic apps for updates
When it comes to planning for minimal disruption, drivers should keep their mobile devices charged and loaded with apps such as the AA Journey Planner for regular updates on congestion, weather warnings and long delays.
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Avoid busy roads, if you can
Driving on busy roads in a poor weather can be dangerous, especially if there are high winds as well.
If you have to travel during these days and times, Will suggests to stay alert of others around you and to limit distractions where you can by turning the radio or music down.
Reduce your speed and always keep a four-second following distance between your vehicle and the one in front.
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